Category Archives: The Weekly News

Gotta Get That Root

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

jennifer-Jester-MadrigalOne of the chores I hated the most when I was a kid was pulling weeds.

We had a large slope behind the pool and my mom would have us help her pull weeds when they got out of hand. Of course, I’d be in a hurry and try to just rip the tops off so I could finish as fast as possible and move on, and my mom, of course, would tell me to slow down and make sure I “got the root”. She’d always point out that if you didn’t get it at the root then it would just grow back right away.

Most individuals who suffer from addiction, depression, anxiety, etc., will eventually get to the point where they will have to look the cause of their issues in the face and see what it is that brought them down the path. It could have been a failed relationship with a parent, abuse, or maybe even a traumatic event that was never dealt with.

Whatever the “root” is, it eventually must be dealt with because these things have a way of continuing to come to the surface until they are finally handled.

Years later – and probably because I am a writer and somehow always manage to find the “deep meaning” of simple sayings – this phrase has a deeper significance to me. I now apply this to my own life and try to remember when times get tough, that in order to make progress, I have to make sure that I attack the issue at the root.

I’ve learned that if you don’t take the time to really find the root cause of the issue, then all your surface work will do very little to actually solve the problem.

Face your issues, your demons, and your insecurities head-on, and do something about them. Talk to someone, get help, get out, make a plan, or whatever it takes to finally attack that root and move toward fixing whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Free Tax Return Services

When:  Feb. 21, 28; Mar. 7, 14, 21; Apr. 11 – 8 a.m. to Noon

Where:  Ganesha High School, 1151 Fairplex Drive, Room 12, Pomona

Details:  IRS-certified volunteer students who have been officially trained and tested in current tax law will offer free tax return preparation services to community members during eight Saturday sessions.  No appointment is necessary; the service is available to those whose annual income is $53,000 or less.

Contact:  Jackie Jones, (909) 397-4400, ext. 30012.

San Gabriel Valley Orchid Hobbyists

When:  Thurs., Feb. 19; 7:30 p.m.

Where:  Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia

Details:  Learn how to grow orchids in Southern California, and get a private tour of the greenhouses at the Huntington Library.

Contact:  www.SGVOH.org

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly:  Feb., 28, Mar. 28

Where:  First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Ave., Pomona

Details:  Come help serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged at monthly dinners.  Volunteers meet in E202 (2nd Floor) at 12 noon for prayer/devotion, followed by orientation, clothing and hygiene kit distribution, and instruction for serving dinner to the homeless.  Ministry ends by 4:30 p.m.

First Friday Food Trucks

When:  Mar. 6; May 1; June 5; July 3; Aug. 7; Sept. 11; Oct. 2; Nov. 6; Dec. 4

Where:  WVUSD, Parking Lot, 880 S. Lemon Ave., Walnut

Details:  Enjoy gourmet food, great weather and good friends while supporting education!  Truck line-up:  The Slummin’ Gourmet; Piaggio; Me So Hungry; Street Food; Bakery Truck.

Diamond Bar Birthday & Business Showcase

When:  Sat., Apr. 11; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where:  Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar

Details:  Be part of the DB Birthday Celebration by getting a booth at the Business Showcase.  Over 6,000 attendees!  Sign up while premium exhibitor space is still available.

Contact:  http://www.diamondbarca.gov/bday

REGULAR EVENTS:

Alcohol and Addiction Intervention Information

When: Third Tuesday, monthly; 6 p.m.

Where:  Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina

Details:  Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addiction.  Attendees can expect to learn what the intervention process consists of, when an intervention is appropriate, and what local resources are available.  Space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact:  Call (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

Brahma Football Star Joins National Signing Day

DBHS football player, Antonio Hull, signed a national letter of intent to play at the University of Wyoming. Shown with Pathways Director Julie Salas, Principal Catherine Real, Coach Marcus Hughes, and Assistant Principal John Terry. (Photo Courtesy: Kelly Gile)

DBHS football player, Antonio Hull, signed a national letter of intent to play at the University of Wyoming. Shown with Pathways Director Julie Salas, Principal Catherine Real, Coach Marcus Hughes, and Assistant Principal John Terry. (Photo Courtesy: Kelly Gile)

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar High School standout football player, Antonio “Noodles” Hull, officially committed to the University of Wyoming during National Signing Day on Feb. 4. Hull signed a coveted four-year, full-ride scholarship to play Division I football.

Family members, staff, and students from the Pathways Communication Academy cheered for Hull during the signing ceremony held in the theatre.

“I want to thank God, my family, my coaches, and Diamond Bar High for their support. I won’t let you down!” the 17-year old Hull said on stage.

Hull was lauded for the accomplishment during the celebration.

“This is huge! There are over a million high school football players and less than 2% receive full-ride Division I scholarships. You truly have to be gifted and blessed, and you definitely earned it,” commented Head Football Coach, Marcus Hughes.

As a junior, Hull was declared ineligible to play by a CIF ruling. Players traditionally gain attention from college scouts during their junior year.

“This road has not been easy for Antonio.  He’s proven to all of us that he can step up and meet any challenge whether it’s on the field or in the classroom. And that makes today even more special,” Principal Catherine Real said.  “We’re so incredibly proud of you!”

Hull came back with a strong senior season along with the interest of several colleges. He finished up with 1,278 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns; and he was successful returning kicks and 38 tackles on defense.  Next year he will play defensive back and return kicks for the Cowboys.

“He did it! When others stepped away, he stepped up!” praised Assistant Principal John Terry. “Antonio, watching you play on that field is amazing. You’re an amazing athlete. But even more you’re an amazing young man.”

“It’s extremely rare for a player to miss his whole junior. He came out his senior year and played hard and was a great teammate and leader on the field,” Hughes added.

A year ago, Hull made a commitment to match his academic performance with his athletic performance.

“Antonio is a true testament to what you can be if you set your heart and mind to accepting nothing less from yourself than your personal best,” said Pathways Director Julie Salas.

“I think Wyoming liked who I am in the classroom and on the field,” Hull proudly said.

“This is one of the most talented football players I’ve ever seen on a high school team, And I have no doubt when you get to Wyoming you’re going to be putting on quite a show up there,” Athletic Director Kevin Ferguson stated.

“And make sure you bring that winter coat – you’re going to need it!” Ferguson added.

Mail/Credit Card Theft Arrests In Chino Hills

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Wed., Feb. 4, at approximately 3:00 p.m., deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department Multiple Enforcement Team (MET) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of Butterfield Ranch Road and Hidden Springs Road for investigation of vehicle code violations. During the investigation, deputies discovered the occupants of the vehicle were in possession of mail stolen from residents of Chino Hills, stolen credit cards, and burglary tools.

Deputies determined these suspects were responsible for a string of mail and credit card theft from residents of Chino Hills, Yorba Linda, Fountain Valley, and Anaheim.

The suspects, Jason Schmuch, 31, of Running Springs; Aaron Spangler, 22, of Norco; and Tanya Patton, 33, of Norco were arrested, transported and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Department. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.

Pomona’s K9 Officer Duko Loses Cancer Battle

Pomona Police K9 Officer Duko (Photo Courtesy: Pomona Police Department)

Pomona Police K9 Officer Duko (Photo Courtesy: Pomona Police Department)

Staff Reports

Pomona – Officer Duko was a 10-year old Belgian Malinois, who served the City of Pomona – along with his partner, Officer Paul Western – for seven years.

During his career, Officer Duko assisted his partner in a multitude of crime-solving services, including the apprehension of 30 felony suspects, the removal of seven firearms off the street, and the location and clearing of ten suspicious packages or devices.

Officers Duko and Western also had the responsibility of clearing areas of explosive devices for the U.S. Secret Service during President Obama’s visit to the City of Pomona.  This team also provided the valuable service of regularly clearing the L.A. County Fairgrounds, the Rose Bowl and the Rose Parade route before events.

Officer Duko was diagnosed with liver cancer in early December after a checkup with the veterinarian.  He took a turn for the worse last week, and the difficult decision was made to relieve him of his suffering.

The loss of a K9 partner is significant to the Police Department, and even more so to the handler.  Officer Duko, you will be sorely missed.

First General Bank Continues RUSD Scholarships

By Gina Ward

Rowland Heights – On Mon., Feb. 2, First General Bank announced that applications for the 2015 First General Bank Scholarship Fund were available. The scholarship fund provides financial assistance to graduating Rowland Unified School District (RUSD) high school students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and community involvement.  This is the third year of support to RUSD – offering five scholarship awards in the amount of $1,000 each – for students in need.

“We are pleased to continue our support for education in our community through working together with RUSD,” stated President and Chief Executive Officer, Cliff Hsu. “Once again, this year First General Bank will award a total of $5,000 in scholarships to five eligible students, providing financial assistance for their higher education expenses.”

Seniors from Rowland High School, Nogales High School and Santana High School that are in financial need, have a 3.5 GPA (or higher) for all four years, and who have demonstrated leadership through school and community involvement and service may apply for the scholarships, Feb. 2 through 20.

“We appreciate the continued support of our students by community partners such as First General Bank,” said RUSD Superintendent, Julie Mitchell, Ed.D. “We thank them for making this opportunity available for our students who desire to continue their education, but who have financial challenges which make it difficult for them to achieve their post-secondary goals.”

The First General Bank Scholarship deadline is 4 p.m. on Feb. 20.  Applications are available at each high school. For more details about the application process, please contact the RUSD Educational Services Division at (626) 854-8348.

RUSD is proud to serve 15,000 students at 20 elementary and secondary schools in the communities of Rowland Heights, Walnut, La Puente, City of Industry, and West Covina. More than 5,000 adults (16+) are also served by the Rowland Adult and Community Education School. For more information about Rowland Unified, contact Gina Ward at (626) 854-8352 or visit www.RowlandSchools.org.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met on Tues., Feb. 3, with a new Business of the Month recipient, and continuing discussion on the moratorium concerning the City’s massage establishments.

Council Member Jimmy Lin was absent from the meeting.

Mayor Steve Tye and the rest of the council members congratulated owners, Manindber and Raviya Tej, of the Dilliwala Indian Kitchen (located at 303 S. Diamond Bar Blvd.), for being named Business of the Month for February 2015.

“In recognition of the Diamond Bar City Council, we are proud to welcome the new Business of the Month, Dilliwala Indian Kitchen,” Tye said. “We thank you so much for choosing and investing in Diamond Bar, and we appreciate your business and contribution to the City’s economy.”

Tye mentioned that local businesses like Dilliwala Indian Kitchen help create a better atmosphere for Diamond Bar, stating that “When you succeed, we succeed.”

The meeting then progressed to the list of scheduled events to include the possible cancellation of the Planning Commission meeting on Feb. 10; the scheduled Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Feb. 12; the Household Hazardous Waste and E-Waste Roundup on Feb. 14; City office closures on Feb. 16 for President’s Day; and the next City Council meeting on Feb. 17.

The Council then approved all the items on the consent calendar regarding the minutes for the City Council Study Session and regular meeting on Jan. 20; the Planning Commission minutes for Nov. 25, 2014; a ratification of the check register dated Jan. 15 through Jan. 28 totaling $506,672.18; the Treasurer’s Statement for December 2014; the General Plan Status Report for 2014; the approval of the Notice of Completion for the Residential Area 2 and Arterial Zone 1 road maintenance project; the Landscape District numbers 38, 39 and 41; the authorization to exceed the City Manager’s purchasing authority to approve expenditures with Diversified Printers, Inc. for printing services in the amount not-to-exceed $65,000 during the 2014/2015 fiscal year; the authorization to exceed the City Manager’s purchasing authority to approve professional services expenditures with Simpson Advertising, Inc. for specialty graphic design services in an amount not-to-exceed $80,4000 for the fiscal year of 2014/2015; and to adopt a resolution authorizing a renewal of the general services agreement with the county of Los Angeles.

For public hearings, the Council approved an extension of ten months and 15 days for the interim ordinance prohibiting the issuance of land use permits of business licenses for establishment, expansion, or relocation of massage establishments Citywide. The extension was called for when the City decided it needed more time to consider certain terms and conditions concerning massage parlors.

For the Council considerations, the Council approved a resolution amending the fiscal year 2014/2015 municipal budget and ratifying an appointment to Bob Nishimura to the Planning Commission to fill an unexpired term, previously held by newly appointed Council Member Lin.

After the final topic was discussed, the Council adjourned with plans to meet at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 17, at the Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

What’s Up With Walmart?

Aerial view, looking north on Archibald (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Aerial view, looking north on Archibald (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale/Ontario/Chino – If you’re up on your social media sites in and around the City of Eastvale, you may know that as far as the proposed Walmart coming to Eastvale goes, some citizens can’t wait, and some citizens think it is a concern for the reputation of the City.

Whatever your position on this subject is, the reality is that a Walmart is coming to town.  And not just your average Walmart; a 177,000 square-foot, 24-hour Super Walmart “Green Store”!  According to Walmart, they are proposing that part of their environmental plan be directed to boost energy efficiency, cut down on waste, and reduce greenhouse gasses tied to global warming.  The mega discount retailer has plans for this particular Walmart as a nationwide pilot store.  It could also potentially provide about 100 jobs for the community.

The 2014 Grand Opening of Eastvale’s Walmart – which was projected in early 2013 – has come and gone due to delays on and around the 40-acre property located on the southeast corner of Limonite and Archibald avenues – the soon-to-be mega intersection that borders Ontario and Chino. If you have traveled in that vicinity lately, you know that the gauntlet on Archibald Avenue north of Limonite Avenue is a bit of a challenge – from the new Park Place housing tract under construction, up toward the 60 Freeway.

Initially, the 120-foot electrical transmission towers that grace the property were going to be moved elsewhere because they affected the street widening needed to accommodate the higher volume of already congested traffic that Walmart would bring to that area.  The cost to move the towers was reportedly about $1 million, not to mention the liability issues absorbed by the new location – possibly in Ontario or Chino.  And then, of course, there was the “who” in the payment department…Walmart or Southern California Edison, who would have to mastermind the relocation?  As a solution, there was initial talk of placing concrete barriers around the towers.  SCE recently stated that they have agreed with Walmart that conceptually, the transmission towers will not need to be relocated.

According to SCE, they sent a letter to Walmart on Jan. 22, 2014, requesting detailed engineering plans in order to proceed with the planned review.  Walmart representatives informed SCE that the project – at that time – was too early in the planning phase to draft the plans, but they would be forwarded as soon as they were complete.  At this time, SCE has not received anything from Walmart, so there is currently no action for them to take.

Local Crime Report

Staff Reports

Three Arrested For Chino Hills Carjacking:  On Sun., Feb. 1, at approximately 3:24 p.m. Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Station responded to a carjacking call in the 6000 block of Natalie Road in Chino Hills. Upon arrival Deputies made contact with the victim who reported she was ordered out of her car at gunpoint by an unknown black adult male. The suspect fled the scene in the victim’s car. The victim was able to provide investigators with a physical description of the suspects and the vehicle they were driving.

On Tues., Feb. 3, Deputies from the Riverside Sheriff’s Department responded to a reckless driver in the 15000 block of Caballo Road in the city of Moreno Valley. Upon arrival Deputies made contact with a 16-year old male juvenile. Investigators from the Chino Hills Police Station responded and upon further assessment they were able to identify a total of three suspects:  Ricky Johnson, 19, Dewey Rayshawn Barnett, 22, and a male juvenile, 16, all from Moreno Valley. All three were arrested in connection with the carjacking.

Suspect Arrested For Carjacking:  On Fri., Jan. 30, Pomona Police Officers located a stolen Honda that had been carjacked from a 55-year old female victim at 1:46 a.m. in downtown Pomona. The suspect physically removed the victim from her vehicle, and travelled northbound on Garey Ave.  The vehicle was observed by Pomona Police Units. The suspect pulled over once, but sped away from officers, which initiated a pursuit.

The Pomona Police Officers were joined by the Ontario Police Helicopter as the pursuit travelled northbound on Garey Ave. into the city of La Verne. The pursuit travelled through a residential area, and then south to the area of B St. and Bonita Ave. where the suspect crashed into other vehicles.

The suspect resisted at the scene and had to be tasered. The suspect was arrested and transported to the hospital for examination prior to booking.

La Verne Fire personnel treated three victims at the scene, two of which were minors.  One victim was airlifted with chest trauma.  The La Verne Police Department assisted with the traffic investigation.

Pomona Task Force Arrests Five For Prostitution:  On Jan., 31, the Pomona Police Department Major Crimes Task Force – in an on-going effort to target prostitution and human trafficking – focused on the East Holt Avenue corridor. This area is highly active in prostitution and presents a severe quality of life issue for businesses and residents in the area.

A total of four female adults were arrested for loitering for the purpose of prostitution. Additionally, during the course of their investigation, task force officers were able to identify a male adult who was subsequently arrested for pimping.

Michael Beverly, 40 of Adelanto; Briana Dixon, 22, of San Bernardino; Lyndoris Bradford, 20, of Adelanto; Jonquille Jones, 28, of Manteca; and Kiana Gregory, 20 of Pomona, were arrested at the scene and taken into custody.

Anyone wishing to report such activity is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at (909) 622-1241.

Suspected Murderer, Luis Angel Gonzales (Photo Courtesy: Ontario PD)

Suspected Murderer, Luis Angel Gonzales (Photo Courtesy: Ontario PD)

14-Year Old Ontario Girl Murdered:  On Wed., Jan. 28, at approximately 8:35 p.m., Ontario Police Officers responded a shooting at a resident on the 700 block of East I Street in Ontario.  At the scene, Andrea De Rosas, 14, was found deceased from a gunshot wound.

Officials say there was a party going on at the home at the time the shooting occurred, and the handgun used in the murder was found on site.

On Thurs., Jan. 29, Luis Angel Gonzales, 20, of Ontario, was arrested at a local motel and booked into the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on suspicion of murdering De Rosas. He is currently being held without bail.  Although circumstances and motive for the murder are not yet known, Gonzales and De Rosas reportedly knew each other.

Fontana Man Arrested For Attempted Murder:  On Wed., Jan. 21, Fontana Deputies responded to a stabbing incident that occurred in the 4500 block of Francis Avenue in the unincorporated area of Chino. The victim was stabbed multiple times and nearly died from his injuries. Detectives were called to the scene and conducted an extensive investigation, which identified Jason Edward Alvarado, 25, of Chino, as the suspect. A $1,000,000 arrest warrant was issued for Alvarado’s arrest.

On Mon., Feb. 2, Investigators of the Specialized Enforcement Division and Fontana Station Detective Bureau located Alvarado at his home in Chino and arrested him without incident.

If anyone has further information regarding the investigation, they should contact Detective Mike Siegfried at (909) 771-1129 or msiegfried@sbcsd.org or Sergeant Mark Martinez (909) 356-6767.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I have been married for a year.  My wife and I are having a serious disagreement about how we handle food and grocery shopping.  She prefers to shop at the big warehouse markets so she can save money.  The problem with this thinking is that she has to buy extra large sizes of everything and she serves the same meal for a week (there are only two of us).  I earn a substantial salary so it is not necessary for her to be a frugal shopper.  She said that this is the way her mom did it, and I said that my mom made a fresh meal every night.  If anything was left over from dinner it was used for lunches or snacking.  We were raised so differently.  This is such a problem for me that I have started eating fast food on my way home from work just so I can have some variety.  When I get home, I choke down a little of her four or five day old chicken and wilted salad.  When she sees me dump most of it in the trash she gets mad and says I’m wasting food and money.  I have had to buy new clothes, too, due to the amount of fast food I’m eating.  For all I care, we could eat out every single night and it would not put a dent in our budget.  I hate to fight because my wife is off work right now with a disability, but this is affecting my health.  Any suggestions?

-Pete

Dear Pete:

Differences in upbringing can have a serious impact on a new marriage.  I agree that you should not dread the way you nourish your body, nor should you have to sneak around eating fast food and growing out of your clothes.  If you and your wife cannot get on the same page, I suggest that you take a firm stand and have your own meals handled in a way that is comfortable and healthy for you.  I wonder if your wife has a desire to be frugal because she is not working right now.  Before you do anything drastic, have a heart to heart talk and express how badly you’re feeling about the dinner situation.  Admit your deception with the fast food and state that you will not allow yourself to continue down that path.  If your finances are in great shape, you should not have to live this way.  Food is a serious and often personal issue.  Take immediate steps to get things turned around.  One person’s needs and choices should not destroy the basic happiness and health of another.  Make it clear to your wife that you will not interfere with the way she chooses to eat, but at the same time you will be choosing what’s best for you where your meals are concerned.  Call my office if you and your wife need further assistance.

-Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Friendship Summit Held For 6th Graders

Group activities at the 6th Grade Summit at Suzanne Middle School helped students get to know each other while having fun. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Group activities at the 6th Grade Summit at Suzanne Middle School helped students get to know each other while having fun. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Suzanne Middle School reached out to its 6th Grade students during a Friendship Summit on Jan. 29.

“The school’s pillar of the month is “Caring” and Summit activities focused on how to make friends, how to build relationships, and find commonalities with other classmates,” said counselor GeorgeAnn Cusson.

8th Grade student leaders from Peer Assistance Leadership Students (PALS) and Peer Leaders Uniting Students (PLUS) worked with students during breakout sessions at the 4th Annual event.  The school also hosts specific Summit events targeted for 7th and 8th Grade students.

“Suzanne fully embraces character education and really educates the whole child,” stated teacher and advisor, Marla Rickard.  “I love that our 8th Grade students care so much about the well-being of their classmates.  They spend a lot of time getting trained for facilitating all of the groups and are committed to making sure all kids are engaged and have the opportunities to connect with their peers.”

“These Summits help students interact with each other,” said PALS member Sabrina Chou. “Today’s all about friendship! We want the kids to make new friends and be there for each other during the tough times, too.”

“They help people make new friends,” added Amilia Picella, 13, a PLUS member.

“Basically this entire Summit is to help everybody get out of their everyday groups. We’re trying to mix them up so they don’t just hang out with the same group of people all the time,” Maggie Ho added.

In Room 22, 6th Graders watched “The Sneetches,” by Dr. Seuss, about a group of yellow creatures who are very judgmental to those without a green stars on their bellies.

“I think the moral was, don’t treat people differently because they’re different,” said Natalie Zzhamezhyan, 11.

Field activities included a new version of rock-paper-scissors called giants-wizards-elves.  During the match, groups formed two lines with their backs to each other. At the signal, students simultaneously turned to each other shouting out their response during the quick draw game.  Giants beat elves, wizards beat giants, and elves beat wizards – fun!

“Everybody has to make a decision who they will be,” Picella explained.

In the Trust Game, students with eyes tightly closed are guided through a maze by partners. Then they switch,” explained PLUS member, Jaslynn Lugo, 14.

“It was fun and a little scary,” said Melissa Munoz, 11, after completing the course.

“Seeing these kids interacting with each other, caring for, and holding each other accountable in life are just a few of the positive outcomes of the Summits,” said Rickard.

“I’ve had a good time today,” said 11-year-old Arin Thompson. “The best thing was the friendship web that showed what people have done for us or what we can do for people.”

“In this particular Summit kids learn that true friends may seem hard to make, but in order to have good friends, you must be one yourself,” said Rickard.  “They learn that character shines through everyday decisions and the relationships they attain.  You just have to be you and embrace the unique attributes others have!”

Stranded Motorist Or Wanted Kidnapper?

Chino Hills Deputies Stop to Assist a Stranded Motorist and Discover He’s Wanted for Kidnapping

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Feb., 5 at approximately 3:35 a.m., a Chino Hills deputy stopped to assist a stranded motorist on the northbound off ramp of Highway 71 at Grand Avenue, on the border of Chino Hills and the city of Chino.

While assisting the driver safely out of the roadway, the deputy noticed the subject had a bracelet on his ankle commonly associated with probation or parole out-of-custody monitoring. Upon further investigation, the subject, identified as Josue Rivera, was found to have warrants for traffic violations and a Kidnapping/False Imprisonment case.

During a search of his vehicle, a forged Resident Alien card bearing Rivera’s photo and another individual’s name was located in his wallet. Deputies believe Rivera used the forged identification card for employment and has used it during court proceedings to assume a false identity.

Rivera explained the GPS tracking bracelet was placed on his ankle by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents when he was unable to post bail on another criminal case.

Rivera was booked at West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on the warrants, as well as Forgery.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Station at (909) 364-2000.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 02.07.15

www.OurWeeklyNews.com - Feb 7th EditionThe Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link  2015-Feb7-WeeklyWEB to access the complete Weekly News February 7th issue in PDF format.

Treat Your Valentine To The Whole Enchilada

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Valentine’s Day is upon us, and what better way to show your love for your sweetheart than a delicious dinner at The Whole Enchilada!

From delicious platters and entrée meals to taco bars, The Whole Enchilada offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland.  They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience.

“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada. The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of Mexican dishes ranging from enchiladas and burritos to carne asada and fajitas.

Planning a Valentine’s Day party?  The Whole Enchilada can help cater your event with handmade tamales – which are available year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese.  Other menu items, such as the taquito or street taco platters, are available for catering as well.

Whether it’s a Valentine’s fiesta, business meetings or parties, promotions, fundraisers, birthdays, or just an evening out, The Whole Enchilada will dazzle you with their excellent customer service and delicious food.  They look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.

If you are looking for a sweet Valentine’s treat after your meal, try The Whole Enchilada’s Mexican Kaluha Flan, Rio Grande Mud Pie, or popular Deep Fried Ice Cream.  Valentine’s Day never tasted so delicious!

The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit.  The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online.  It’s the perfect gift for your Valentine, or anyone you are gift-shopping for; it’s always the perfect color and size.  And be sure to ask The Whole Enchilada about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and their Kids Club.  With a wide variety of reasons to visit, it’s obvious that The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant.

Don’t deny your taste buds this Valentine’s Day, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com.  See their ad on the back page of this publication.

David & Margaret Youth and Family Services

Youth and Family Services business breaks ground on Expansion Project

Ground breaking of David & Margaret Youth and Family Services’ expansion project. (Photo Courtesy: Julie Griffith)

Ground breaking of David & Margaret Youth and Family Services’ expansion project. (Photo Courtesy: Julie Griffith)

By Julie Griffith

La Verne – David & Margaret Youth and Family Services formally broke ground Jan. 29 on a project more than seven years in the making – one that will increase by nearly 30 percent the supportive permanent housing available to youth who are transitioning out of foster care and into independence, and make the agency one of the largest supportive communities for former foster youth in Los Angeles County.

“When foster children reach age 18, they become legal adults, begin ‘aging out’ of the foster care system, and are considered transitional age youth,” says Chief Executive Officer, Charles Rich. “Without supportive families, they face challenges no youth should have to face alone. Most parents know how hard it is today for a youth to get an education, find a job, make a home and build a family, even with family support. Imagine how much more difficult it is without it!”

The two critical challenges facing these youth are securing safe, affordable housing and gaining workplace skills so they can get and hold a job to support themselves. Without these two resources, they are prey to drugs, crime, violence and homelessness – taking from, rather than adding to, our societal resources.

To help meet these challenges, the agency is creating three new facilities. One is Cedar Springs, which will provide 25 permanent supportive apartment homes for transitional age youth. This “village” will consist of three attractive two-story buildings in a garden-like setting and will feature a community center where residents can train, study, learn, socialize and take part in programs of interest. The facility will be open to placements for youth from Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and local surrounding counties.

The project will include a Youth Work-Force Training Center that will provide training opportunities for these youth, who can move toward self-reliance by working and gaining skills in a real store and café. A training lab will provide a place to focus on independent living skills and job readiness with a capacity for up to 20 youth at a time, or 80 to 100 during the course of a week. It will include work stations, computer hook-ups, a smart TV for training videos, an area for books and resource materials, and an office for counseling, training, mentoring or practicing interview skills with video review.

There also will be a Transitional Youth Resource Center in renovated space in an adjacent existing building. It will provide these youth, particularly those living in off campus apartments, a safe place to congregate and “hang out” with their peers. Up to eight supportive staff offices will also be present, allowing staff accessibility to youth for support, coaching and training. It will feature computers for job search, preparation and submission of resumes, applying to colleges or training programs; an area for resource materials, a lending wardrobe and dressing room to facilitate proper attire for interviews, safe recreational and free time use, and kitchen facilities and meal area, with healthy snacks available.

David & Margaret Youth and Family Services serves more than 1,000 clients annually through a comprehensive range of services, including a residentially-based program for adolescent girls, shelter care for adolescent girls, a foster family agency, adoption assistance, mental health services,  treatment for learning disabilities, transitional living programs, school- and community-based education and mentoring programs. Additionally, it has a chemical dependency program that is certified by the State of California for residents who are recovering from substance abuse.  Joan Macy School, a specialized non-public, on-grounds school, serves agency residents, as well as students referred from surrounding school districts.

For more information on the Cedar Springs expansion project, contact the David & Margaret Development Department at (909) 596-5921, ext. 3226; or visit http://www.DavidandMargaret.org.

 

 

C.J. Morris Kinders Celebrate Day 100

By Kelli Gile

Three “little old ladies,” Kindergarteners Rachel Peiten, Chloe Thi, and Molly Chung showed off their 100-year old costumes on Jan. 29. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Three “little old ladies,” Kindergarteners Rachel Peiten, Chloe Thi, and Molly Chung showed off their 100-year old costumes on Jan. 29. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – C.J. Morris Elementary kindergarten students dressed up as adorable centenarians to mark the 100th day of school on Jan. 28.

The youngsters transformed into 100-year olds with gray spray-painted hair, glasses, and canes for the day of fun and learning.  Many of the little ones had their new “mature” hair tucked up in buns with rouge on their cheeks. They wore aprons, shawls and sweater vests.  Some even had painted-on wrinkles!

Chloe Thi, 6, said she liked wobble-walking with her little cane.

“This was the first time we’ve had the students dress as old people,” noted teacher Sarah Sherman.  “They came in with little mustaches and cotton ball eyebrows – it was so cute!  And by the time 10 o’clock came around, they took it off!” she added.

The teaching team included Luisa Salazar, Kelly Revells, and Sherman, who led the activities costumed with gray wigs, floral dresses, saggy socks, and a trio of canes.

“Mrs. Salazar looks like an old lady! She’s wearing a wig,” observed a giggling Jewelina Baker.

Counting to the 100th day of school serves as good practice for number recognition and beginning math skills.  It also means the students and their teachers made it about halfway through the school year!

The kids look forward to reaching the big 100 all year long.  They counted out 100 Fruit Loops cereal rounds to make necklaces.  They estimated walking one hundred feet.  They wrote little books about 100 things they’ve seen, eaten, or wanted to do.  At recess the young whippersnappers raced and played.

“We were two old ladies riding a race car!” exclaimed Rachel Peiten.

Don’t Let Life Pass You By

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

When we are young, we can’t wait to turn 18.  When we are 18, we can’t wait until we are 21.

Now that we are adults, we can’t wait to graduate college and get married.  Now that we are married, we can’t wait to have a family and buy a house.

We now have it all:  the family, the big job, and the big house.  Now we can’t wait until we retire.

Why is that we have such a hard time just living in the present?  It’s as if we are literally wishing our lives away.

People seem to believe the future holds the happiness that the present just doesn’t.  I always hear people say things will be different when I get past “that”.  So time moves along and they do indeed get past “that”, and from out of nowhere something else comes along.  Now they are thinking things will be so much better when they get past “this”. And so it is that this just keeps reoccurring.

Do you see a pattern here?  It’s called life, and it seems as if it is always giving us something that we must get through.

Life is not a neat little package; it involves a lot of hard work and challenges.  Even so, there are times that we don’t get what we think we really deserve.  Maybe these are the times to look at what we did end up with and realize it is even better.

We spend so much time looking at what we don’t have and feeling sorry for ourselves.  Life has a way of giving us what we need, if we just pay attention.  Things seem to work out if we are patient and willing to accept life’s challenges and live each day to the fullest.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients. Nancy is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services, feel free to contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727; or you may e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

Bank Robbery Prompts Fatal Shooting

Staff Reports

Corona bank robbery chase ends in Chino. (Photo Courtesy: Casper News)

Corona bank robbery chase ends in Chino. (Photo Courtesy: Casper News)

Chino – On Wed., Feb. 4, at approximately 4:07 p.m., the Corona Police Department responded to Pacific Premier Bank, located at 102 E. Sixth St. in Corona, in reference to a take-over robbery.

As the robbery suspect exited the bank, it was reported he may have car-jacked a vehicle. Officers located the suspect vehicle and a pursuit ensued out of Corona and into the City of Chino.

Reports say the suspect vehicle careened off the 71 Expressway, crashed through barricades and slammed into a light pole at the intersection of Euclid Ave. and Pine St.  An officer involved shooting took place at the scene with a white male adult.

According to the Corona Police Department, the suspect was struck by gunfire and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The identity of the suspect has not yet been released.

No officers were injured during the incident and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, Specialized Investigations Unit, is handling the shooting investigation.

There were no reported injuries from anyone inside the bank where the robbery took place.  The amount of money taken from the bank is not known at this time.

This investigation is on-going and anyone with additional information is urged to call the Corona Police Department at (951) 736-2330 (select Option 3), or San Bernardino Sheriff Investigator, Gary Hart at (760) 559-3431.

Mission Viejo Man Strangles Wife

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Thurs., Feb. 5, an Orange County husband was arraigned on charges of strangling and murdering his wife in their Mission Viejo home.

Gary Lee Parsons, 74, is charged with one felony count of murder. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison. The defendant is being held on $1 million bail in Santa Ana’s Central Jail.

In the early hours of Feb. 3, Parsons is accused of engaging in an argument with his wife, Barbara Parsons, 73, inside their home. The argument escalated to a physical altercation and the defendant is accused of throwing the victim onto their bed and strangling her until she was unresponsive. He is also accused of tucking the victim into the bed and leaving the home in his car.

Parsons reportedly then called a family member, who, in turn, called the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) to report the crime.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 3, OCSD received a call from the defendant, and deputies arrived at the Mission Viejo home shortly thereafter. The defendant returned home and parked in the driveway.  After entering the home and finding Barbara Parsons deceased in her bed, OSCD deputies arrested the defendant.

Did You Know?

By K.P. Sander

A Boy Scout in 1969 (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

A Boy Scout in 1969 (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

On Sun., Feb. 8, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) will celebrate their 105th anniversary as one of the largest youth organizations in the United States.

With membership nearing 2.7 million youth and more than one million adult volunteers, the BSA was previously ranked the twelfth-largest non-profit group in the country, with total revenues of $665.9 million.

According to Wikipedia, the goals driving the BSA revolve around training youth to be responsible citizens, of good character, who are self-reliant. These young men – aged anywhere from 7 to 21 – participate in diverse educational programs, outdoor activities, and much more.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, the BSA has more than 105,000 units throughout the U.S.  You probably know some cub or boy scouts in your own city. The units are led by volunteers that are appointed by the BSA chartering organization, or local organizations such as churches, clubs, civic associations and educational programs implementing the scouting program within communities.

While the BSA’s influence has been both lauded and criticized for unfair practices – at times resulting in litigation – their objectives (known as “Aims of Scouting”) are touted as pure:  moral character development; citizenship training; and the development of physical, mental, and emotional fitness.  These Aims are defined through informal education and activities at regular meetings and members are identified within their own dens, packs and communities under the mentorship of adult leaders.

“Scouting” is characterized through specific codes, and perhaps at some point in your life you have held up three fingers and promised, “Scout’s Honor.”

Scout Oath:  “On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country, and to obey the Scout Law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.”

Scout Law:  “A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.”

Outdoor Code:  “As an American, I will do my best to be clean in my outdoor manner, to be careful with fire, to be considerate in the outdoors, and to be conservation minded.”